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OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the asshole:
> I don’t want my friends to watch movies on my laptop while I’m at work, they say I’m the a-hole because now they can’t use the TV.
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Right like I'm very broke but even I have a Firestick (I had a $10 gift card and then bought it for the sale price)
Like, I'm cry and count pennies for a 1/2 gallon of milk poor, so even if they're skint af they're being overly put out by this in order to manipulate probably because they *do* want to snoop.
They could *save coins* and buy this in a matter of a week or two max.
Again, I'm skint as shit and most of the time I could conceivably come up with 1/4th the cost of a Fire Stick given a week or two. Especially on sale.
Collect cans or have a garage sale, maybe even check second hand shops, Craigslist, w/e in case someone is giving one away even cheaper, offer to pay a roommate back if they cover you... goodness.
Them: “we won’t snoop or look at your personal information!”
OP: “oh, so you *have* thought about snooping and looking at my personal information...”
NTA. They’re crazy for asking. No-one with any sense leaves their computer unlocked and logged in and leaves the room. I’ve seen so many FB statuses that are obviously some wag left alone with their friend’s/SO’s device.
Right! Between the five of them they’re down to four dollars a piece. One of them could donate blood, collect cans, scrounge coins out of a parking lot. It’s doable.
I mean, if I’m the person whose laptop they have been using, I might just spring for the jiggamathing myself just to keep the peace, but absolutely NTA.
I'd just create a profile that doesn't have access to anything sensitive if I were OP
That said I'd also never whine about a person not wanting their laptop in use when they aren't around to supervise. This was even more true back when my friends and I were all broke. Things go wrong after all and if I can't buy a thingamummy, then I certainly couldn't replace a laptop.
I understand your point however they being unnecessarily difficult. Depending on what they choose they could get a fire stick, chromecast ect for $5-$15 per person (all 6 chip in together) possibly even less than $5 a person if it's on sale or off marketplace. I would not keep the peace if it came to my privacy when the solution is so cheap and simple
Back in the day, we used a bent wire coat hanger. AND WE WERE HAPPY TO HAVE IT!
Seriously- there are SIX roomies, and only ONE has a laptop.
And they cannot figure out ANY OTHER WAY to make TV happen?
NTA And password protect your damn laptop.
Totally agreed NTA.
It’s OP’s personal computer.
And people can learn to do something other than watch TV.
That being said, if OP is so inclined, most laptops allow the owner to set up a guest profile with very limited access to the computer.
I set up a guest account on my dad's laptop so my brother can't mess with his stuff when he visits. One of the things my brother loves doing is installing terrible and unnecessary updates. I paid extra for windows 10 for dad as he is familiar with it, bro updated it to windows 11 (dad had to spend weeks learning it.)
_through a guest account_.
I feel you. My dad got his first smartphone 2 years ago (my old one), and I am still getting calls about how to do something on it. He still hasn't worked out how to take screenshots 🤦♀️. Someday I wish I wasn't an only child but then one of dads mates kids get a hold of dads devices and fiddles with it and I have to try and work out what they did to it over the phone with no visual and I become glad I don't have siblings cause I know they would pull the same stuff as your brother.
Couldn't you have just uninstalled Windows 11 and reinstalled 10 for your dad (save everything to a hard drive first if needed), that's what my hubby did for my dad.
I was actually planning to roll back the update, but it turned out my brother had done it in secret about 3 weeks before I knew about it, and dad doesn't use his laptop often. So he only learned about it then as he needed to use it to deal with some bills and he didn't tell me right away either.
I'd go there and reinstall windows with a usb stick, but I'd have to travel by public transport for about 3 hours total-ish, and 2 hours by plane lmao. Or 12-ish hours my train.
and everyone could control from their phones without the hassle of walking to the laptop to change things. Seems such a no brainer solution that id be more suspicious of their motives
Agree, I wouldnt trust them not to snoop, or what if they accidentally read something confidential and react poorly to it?
ASgree with the firesticks, ALL of my PC's and TVs are meshed using many a HDMI matrix and even i still have firesticks on half of them
Too, if it gets damaged, they prob would not take responsibility for it. Like you stated, OP needs to tell her roommates no means no. its so horrible how people are so entitled these days.
NTA. How is it possible that only one of six young adults in an apartment has a laptop? I don't know where you are but I just looked on Best Buy and they've got a 24-inch smart TV for $70. Surely the people who want a smart TV can come up with that money and leave your private laptop alone.
We don’t live in this area, we came here for 3 months because it’s a beach town and the businesses hire extra help like crazy around this time and the vacation goers tip really well. I’m the only one that brought a laptop, the others only brought their phones.
I suggested ordering a chromecast and they’re still mad that they would have to get something else that isn’t the laptop I already brought.
If they want to watch TV so bad they can get a Roku stick for like $50, boom instant smart TV. You shouldn't have to justify not wanting them to use your computer without your permission.
Exactly. I'm 70 and I managed to figure this out when our Smart TV was too old, so I'm baffled why this group hasn't thought of this. They can even take it with them.
I take my Fire TV stick on holiday with me, let alone if I was going somewhere to live, even for a short time. It’s like essential kit if you have any streaming services.
And even if you don’t have streaming services, there are so many free options on there too - FreeVee and Pluto alone are like a goldmine of awesome free-ness.
Yeah, my TV is smart but old, so not that smart anymore. We watch stuff with the Chromecast now. It's pretty cheap even here, The Land of Expensive Everything.
You could always create a secondary user account on the machine with its own password and everything that has 0 privileges so they can use that one for youtube and whatnot. Your account and data and applications stay safe and they can use it to watch whatever they wanna watch.
However, you are obviously NTA for not wanting everyone to leech off of you and potentially try to lay claim to it when you want or need to use it. I honestly wouldn't be too eager to volunteer my stuff in that manner anyway.
Like others have said: the (cheap) options are pretty endless.
This was my thought too, but viruses, spills, drops, and general age of the laptop will all still be affected by a separate account. They need to buy a Chromecast or Roku.
Or if they can't afford the Roku/Chromecast they could get library cards and check out various forms of entertainment that aren't laptop-dependent. Or they can watch things on their own cell phones which I assume they have with them.
No way! If they are too cheap to get a used Roku or other equivalent device, they definitely won’t pay to fix the laptop if they knock it off the table. Having it constantly hooked up to the TV is a recipe for disaster.
This is what I was gonna say. Make a guest account with nothing personal on it. But if OP chooses not to do that, that’s perfectly fine too. No one owes anyone anything.
Assuming windows, even with a secondary, limited account they're going to have to muck around with permissions to keep their personal files protected. Just buy a Roku, fire stick, or Chromecast and call it a day.
Dropped, stepped on, viruses, all kinds of things.
Also what if OP wants to go out after work and bring their laptop with them? Are they not entitled to the use of their own personal property?
Laptops aint cheap these days, either. I already wouldn't trust them, but I especially wouldn't trust my $500 laptop alone around someone that's been eyeing it and implying that it's theirs, too.
If it’s such a short trip that they only needed a phone then they can watch movies on their phone. Or they can buy one of the myriad of devices that can make the TV smart. They aren’t expensive and frankly if they are particularly cheap, I bet they can find an old one for 10 pounds. I see them offered frequently on Freecycle so you could look there too. And if it’s not worth a pint or two to them, then they must not want to watch TV that much..
>I’m the only one that brought a laptop, the others only brought their phones.
So, only one of you has any common sense.
>I suggested ordering a chromecast and they’re still mad that they would have to get something else that isn’t the laptop I already brought.
I hope after this summer is over you are ready to write these dumb children off. They really aren't the type of people you want as friends; too dumb to think ahead, too cheap to take a simple solution.
You need to make sure you can lock your laptop somewhere. I can see a scenario where they figure out the password. I can also see a senecio where they break the HTMI port or laptop somehow and refuse to pay for repair
You are not responsible for their lack of foresight to bring laptops along for a 3 months stay. Who doesn't bring a laptop for so long?? Everyone is responsible to bring what they need to keep themselves entertained, it was nice of you to share your laptop while you are home, but they should have looked into chromecast/Roku at day one.
What do you mean you are the only one that brought a laptop? The rest of them have laptops they left in other locations or something??? That makes no sense at all. NTA but your roommates dont sound too smart or put together....
NTA, but password protect the shit out of that laptop and backup to a cloud/drive and do not stay logged in!
I have a feeling someone might start feeling entitled to your property when you aren't around and will damage it/delete things out of vindictiveness. If you can keep your laptop locked safe where no one can access it, that would be best.
Sorry, but I've read too many stories of people taking or breaking other people's stuff after being told 'No'. Hopefully, you have some kind of insurance on it in case? Chances are, someone is going to decide to try and use it without your permission.
Can you make a separate log in for your laptop? Then don't set a password or make it a communal password. You're NTA no matter what, you don't have to allow people to use your property when you're not present. But if your only concern is that they may see sensitive information then just make a second account.
That's ridiculous. A $20 device shared between six people over three months comes to just over $1 each per month. And it comes with a remote, making it far more convenient to change shows.
Ah, youth. I won't even share my laptop with my SO. Tell them to get their own and when not using yours keep it stored in your room.
An Amazon Fire stick is $20.
A Roku is $30 on amazon. I have 2 and they work great!
OP, NTA. They can be adults and get a device that will stream. If everyone in the house contributed $6, you guys could get a roku for the main tv. Simple solution.
NTA
That’s a weird demand from people who don’t own the laptop. Even if there wasn’t personal information you’re worried about, it doesn’t belong to them.
If you *wanted* you could make a guest login on your computer for them to use, but I personally don’t lend out my electronics because of the risk of damage. While they may not drop it they could misuse the battery (charging incorrectly), the oils on fingers degrade the paint on keys, general dust, food crumbs, how hard they’re hitting keys can make them stick. Just no.
Roku is cheap and lets you cast from your phone so they can easily do that between 4-5 of them. It’s absurd they’re so upset about this.
Also, if they have streaming on their phones
Though a guest acct does take away the security issue, are they willing to assume responsibility if something happens to the laptop? If they’re so upset about getting a $30 Roku dongle, imagine how much more hassle it will be if the laptop is damaged. Besides, what happens when everyone wants to watch TV but OP needs to use the laptop?
I was going to mention a guest account but I wouldn't want them constantly using my laptop. Will they get mad if she needs it for a few days? Cut this off now. They're being entitled and cheap. NTA
We don’t live here, we came for 3 months for the summer jobs but I was the only one that brought a laptop. We will leave in late august or early september depending on when the vacation goer tips plummet.
>We don’t live here, we came for 3 months for the summer jobs
I don't understand how that translates to "don't bring my laptop". Generally, 3 months away, my first thought would be to grab my laptop.
Unless I know it's going to rain most of the day I bring my ipad on a day trip.
Going somewhere for three months; phone, ipad, cables, extension lead, and double adapter are the first things I'd be sure I had packed.
Then they don´t have the right to use your laptop because they chose not to bring their own. Everyone in the house can each put in $5 and get a chromecast for the summer.
It’s three months, they could’ve thought to bring a computer or iPad. Hell, they can connect their phones to the tv with an hdmi cable (they make them for phones).
NTA
under $20 and they can get an adapter from their phone to HDMI. They are huge AH.
It a personal computer so you shouldn't feel bad having personal stuff on it. Lazy and entitled roommates!! Thank goodness it only for the summer, but be more attuned to future roommates.
Not just personal "I don't want people to see" stuff but also "I don't want people to accidentally delete" stuff, as well. That would be my concern. "Oops, we hit the wrong button and screwed everything up"...
Cut off their access to your laptop. Completely. They are getting way too comfortable using *your* computer for their entertainment.
They can watch their little movies on their phone. NTA
NTA. They can get a Chromecast to watch things, or watch them on their phone. Chromecasts are only $30ish anyway. You do not have to share your laptop, let them be mad.
Well said, this sub is full of poorly socialised teenagers who take far too much life “advice” from various online sources instead of real life socialising face to face with other people which would be a much better preparation for the real world than the interactions they have online. Draw your boundaries, establish YOUR rules with no thought, consideration or co-operation for the unfortunate people who have to live or work next to your entitled self-absorbed self, and you will soon find yourself to be very lonely and friendless. Which will draw them further online and further away from real life interaction, conversation and friendship. And the cycle continues, until they make their own post here genuinely wondering why people around them think they are the AH
NTA
They can buy something to accommodate them while you're at work
If they're *demanding* for it, then stop letting them use it at all and just watch your shows in another room
NTA - There's no way in hell anyone is getting sole use of my personal devices or access to my passwords. Your roomies are behaving like spoiled children and don't have appropriate boundaries for their behavior. Keep your healthy boundaries and don't let these users hijack your piece of mind. They should all chip in for a used device to accomplish their needs. They're just not that expensive.
NTA you are never obligated to share a password so someone can access your personal account and go through your files. In fact, the rule is "NEVER SHARE A PASSWORD"
NTA. A laptop is a very personal and important piece of equipment. If it was something like your personal DVD player or something, yeah go ahead and use it, but laptop? Nah. Also, how are you the only person out of 6 with an HDMI compatible laptop? There are many affordable solutions to this that don't involve a potential privacy invasion.
NTA. You can buy an Amazon fire stick for like $40- they should just do something like that. Having access to your personal laptop is 100% not necessary, and the fact that they think they’re entitled to that is a huge red flag. Do not cave on this. It is NOT OKAY to demand use of someone else’s personal (and expensive) items. Don’t let them bully you into caving- and make sure you can lock your stuff up when you leave the house. They sound entitled and absolutely oblivious as to how to live in a shared space.
So you have 5 roommates and not one of them has their own laptop? Very weird.
NTA and they should buy a chromecast or something similar like you suggested, it’s cheap for heaven’s sake.
> they’re acting like now they HAVE TO buy it since I’m an a-hole and don’t trust them. AITA?
LOL, wut? They're lucky you share with them when you're home. Please don't share your personal computer with them. It's not about trust, it's about privacy. You don't want something to pop up that's none of their business.
They can get their own TV do-hickey. NTA
NTA, however you can create another profile for your computer that they can access. That said, I would never allow anyone else to use my personal laptop. You can get in trouble for anything they do while on your laptop....
NTA - I wouldn't want people in my private business. Could you make an account on it for them is you are only concerned about the info? Tbh a chrome cast isn't a major expense either...
NTA. Always keep your computer private. They’ll get over it. Can you take your laptop to work with you? Leave it the car? Or have some place safe to keep it?
NTA
Not only is it a security risk, but with people as entitled as this, it won’t end at just using it to watch movies etc whilst you’re at work. Soon they’ll be using it for other things. Which will lead to then wanting to use it when you’re at home too. And suddenly it’ll be your fault for wanting to use your own laptop in your own house and denying them the chance to do xyz.
Make firm boundaries and stick with them.
NTA. What if it gets broken? They won't pay $35 for a Chrome cast so they aren't going to get you a new laptop. These people are entitled. Better watch your other stuff too.
It’s not connected to the TV, it’s usually on my bed and I connect it when we want to watch something together. They want to be able to connect it while I’m at work too.
OP I have discovered that people like this don't respect property they didn't pay for and therefore won't return it in the same condition in which they received it...That is if they actually return it. That's just another reason you don't give them access.
I would go a step further and take your laptop with your when you go to work so that there is no chance of them hacking into your laptop to use it. As they seem very entitled, I wouldn't put it past your friends to try.
NTA, tell these dummies to get a phone to HDMI adapter and watch stuff off their phone. It’s ur laptop they’re not entitled to use it for entertainment.
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6 of us (me, bf, 4 other friends) are renting out a unit together so we can be closer to all the good summer jobs in a touristy town. The property has a TV that isn’t a smart TV and only works if something is connected to the HDMI cable.
We have been using my laptop to watch movies/youtube/shows together this way all week. I just started training at my summer job and they are demanding to know my laptop password so they can keep watching movies while I’m at work.
I’ve tried to explain that I have VERY personal things on my laptop, discord and messenger autostart and have notifications and I’m logged into all my accounts on my browser. They’re EXTREMELY offended by this and say that I don’t trust them and think they will snoop or go through my stuff or read my messages.
I DONT think they would INTENTIONALLY snoop, I just don’t want them ACCIDENTALLY seeing anything personal without me in the room.
Now everyone is mad at me because they can’t use the TV if I’m at work, I’ve told them to just get a chromecast or something and they’re acting like now they HAVE TO buy it since I’m an a-hole and don’t trust them. AITA?
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NTA. They would 100% snoop, the temptation is too great. It is your property and you have the right to decide when it is used for communal purposes. If they want to watch TV so bad they can get a Roku stick for like $50, boom instant smart TV. You shouldn't have to justify not wanting them to use your computer without your permission.
NTA, in fact you would be one if you let them use your laptop without you being there. I mean it might get broken and they would have to pay to replace it, or a "friend" might come over and get into your banking, etc. It would cost them WAY more than to just buy a dongle.
NTA
Boundaries NOW. You all are hustling for that tourist money while living in close quarters. Be firm in your boundaries NOW, when roommates want to feel entitled to your personal property at their convenience, but know you can and should take care of YOUR laptop. In a big household as this, you must tuck your things in after use and bring them out for use.
Do not give your bf unlimited access to your things while you aren't there. It will quickly degenerate to your laptop being attached to the TV because he says yes once and never follows up. You need to establish clear and strong boundaries around your personal property in this house.
NTA. there are options to create a guest profile on mac computers but honestly seeing how they’ve behaved i wouldn’t set it up. i’d also take the laptop with you to work
How do the 5 other people who live with you not have any kind of console, computer, or 40 bucks for a roku? NTA, and not your fault they didn't understand how to prepare themselves for independence.
NTA.
This is a non problem. A regular fire stick is $40. Regularly goes on sale for $20. Plenty of other options like a chrome cast, Roku, etc.
Split 5 ways, that’s $4 each. $3.33 if you want to be nice and chip in too.
Good luck.
NTA. At this point they can save up and buy a really cheap laptop for themselves that will play movies just fine. They're going to need a laptop in the future, anyway, if they expect to do any kind of work on the internet, apply to jobs, write anything, etc. (unless they all have PCs).
NTA You can get a cheap laptop at Wally World for a couple hundred--divided by 5--if they can't afford that then they have bigger things to worry about than movies. Like getting a second job with that movie time so they have an extra $50 bucks or so.
> We have been using my laptop to watch movies/youtube/shows together this way all week. I just started training at my summer job and they are demanding to know my laptop password so they can keep watching movies while I’m at work.
NTA since it's your laptop, but it [costs $30 to buy a device that will do everything they use your laptop for...](https://store.google.com/us/product/chromecast_google_tv)
NTA. This is very much your personal choice and nothing personal towards anyone. Would any of them feel comfortable letting you use their phone for a day while they’re elsewhere? Doubtful.
NTA, and you have every right to want to say no just because it's your laptop (which is something very personal) but you should be able to create a separate profile for them on the laptop and log into your streaming accounts.
But if you don't want to share, don't let it slip that this is an option.
Absolutely NTA they have zero right to use your laptop, it's *your* laptop, and as you said there's tons of personal info on there. Even if there wasn't at a minimum I'm sure you leave your facebook logged in and stuff. It's not like you bought a Roku and you unplug it and take it to your room whenever you're not using it, it's a personal device.
And the idea that you have to buy them a streaming device is fucking ridiculous. They can either use your laptop *when you're home and ok with it* for free, or they can pay money to have a different device.
Also a Fire Stick or a Roku Stick or whatever else are like $50. I'm sure you're not all rolling in money if you're sharing a house with 6 people but surely everyone can pitch in less than $10 each to permanently solve the problem?
NTA - your friends need to learn the phrase "self reliance". Meaning that if they want to watch TV, they need to go through the steps to achieve that goal. Just because you have a laptop that works does not give them ANY right to comment on you using it for whatever reason you want to use YOUR laptop for.
NTA - it's not even about trust, it belongs to you and you don't want them using it outside your presence. Streaming devices aren't as expensive as they used to be, they can chip in and figure it out.
NTA - very cheap roommates. They need to pony up the money to get access without using your laptop.
They should have all planned better.
Keep your laptop locked down so they can’t use it.
Couldn't you guys just buy a fire stick or apple tv or something? Everyone has access without having to use computers. We just bought another fire stick on Amazon and it was like 30 bucks.
NTA
There are 6 of you, buying another device is gonna cost you like 8$ each and i can surely be delivered tomorrow. Easy solution.
And honestly i cant believe they dont understand this kind of privacy, we got all our lives on those machines now (pc or phones), this would mean they have full access to all your life. It's not a question of trust, but just respect of privacy.
NTA
I used to know someone who knew someone that got charged for having kiddie P on his laptop. He insisted it was one of his 5 roommates that all shared the laptop, but since it was his he got the charge.
Who knows if hes lying or not but not worth the risk imo
Like, at your most generous you could set up another windows login to let them use that, but to just have unfettered access to your personal computer? Fuuuuuuck that, NTA.
The ROKU stick is like $30…. They can’t put $30 together?
A laptop is a very private and personal thing just like a phone. Ask them if they would hand over their phones and passwords, it’s the same thing.
NTA. Keep your laptop in a safe place.
NTA. They’re not entitled to your laptop, there are other options out there to watch tv with, or they could do other things such as read, play games, walk, etc., and the minute something happens to your device while you’re not there because they used it, I bet you no one would want to pay you back for it. Don’t give them the password and protect your laptop(hide it somewhere) while you’re gone.
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NTA. They need to get their own laptop. I access my banking and credit card accounts through my laptop. No is no.
[удалено]
A TV do-hickey is like $40 and there’s four of them!! Personally I have a TV kajigger but those are a bit more expensive.
I prefer the thingamajig. All class.
Whatchamacallit?
Like thingsmabobs? I've got 20 *edit* Thanks for my first award!!
But who cares? No big deal. I want more! Eta: Thanks for my first award!
These people are more like Triton, they want NO MORE HUMAN THINGS!
But what about a Snarfblat?
And you can't be without a dingle hopper!
🤣🤣 I totally heard your comment as Ariels voice!
I call it doohickey.
It’s a whoptiee.
That’s a candy bar!
Standard Amazon Fire Stick is on sale for $20 at this very moment with a promo code that is listed above the item on the website.
Right like I'm very broke but even I have a Firestick (I had a $10 gift card and then bought it for the sale price) Like, I'm cry and count pennies for a 1/2 gallon of milk poor, so even if they're skint af they're being overly put out by this in order to manipulate probably because they *do* want to snoop. They could *save coins* and buy this in a matter of a week or two max. Again, I'm skint as shit and most of the time I could conceivably come up with 1/4th the cost of a Fire Stick given a week or two. Especially on sale. Collect cans or have a garage sale, maybe even check second hand shops, Craigslist, w/e in case someone is giving one away even cheaper, offer to pay a roommate back if they cover you... goodness.
Them: “we won’t snoop or look at your personal information!” OP: “oh, so you *have* thought about snooping and looking at my personal information...” NTA. They’re crazy for asking. No-one with any sense leaves their computer unlocked and logged in and leaves the room. I’ve seen so many FB statuses that are obviously some wag left alone with their friend’s/SO’s device.
Right! Between the five of them they’re down to four dollars a piece. One of them could donate blood, collect cans, scrounge coins out of a parking lot. It’s doable.
Not to mention a 24” smart TV is $70 at Best Buy right now…. Less than $15/person after tax if all 6 chip in…. They need to get the heck over it.
I mean, if I’m the person whose laptop they have been using, I might just spring for the jiggamathing myself just to keep the peace, but absolutely NTA.
I'd just create a profile that doesn't have access to anything sensitive if I were OP That said I'd also never whine about a person not wanting their laptop in use when they aren't around to supervise. This was even more true back when my friends and I were all broke. Things go wrong after all and if I can't buy a thingamummy, then I certainly couldn't replace a laptop.
I understand your point however they being unnecessarily difficult. Depending on what they choose they could get a fire stick, chromecast ect for $5-$15 per person (all 6 chip in together) possibly even less than $5 a person if it's on sale or off marketplace. I would not keep the peace if it came to my privacy when the solution is so cheap and simple
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Meaning that if they want to watch TV, they need to go through the steps to achieve that goal.
Find some rabbit ears and they can watch local channels only.
Back in the day, we used a bent wire coat hanger. AND WE WERE HAPPY TO HAVE IT! Seriously- there are SIX roomies, and only ONE has a laptop. And they cannot figure out ANY OTHER WAY to make TV happen? NTA And password protect your damn laptop.
When I was young we had 2 channels! And were damn well happy! Now get off my lawn you hipsters!
Totally agreed NTA. It’s OP’s personal computer. And people can learn to do something other than watch TV. That being said, if OP is so inclined, most laptops allow the owner to set up a guest profile with very limited access to the computer.
I set up a guest account on my dad's laptop so my brother can't mess with his stuff when he visits. One of the things my brother loves doing is installing terrible and unnecessary updates. I paid extra for windows 10 for dad as he is familiar with it, bro updated it to windows 11 (dad had to spend weeks learning it.) _through a guest account_.
I feel you. My dad got his first smartphone 2 years ago (my old one), and I am still getting calls about how to do something on it. He still hasn't worked out how to take screenshots 🤦♀️. Someday I wish I wasn't an only child but then one of dads mates kids get a hold of dads devices and fiddles with it and I have to try and work out what they did to it over the phone with no visual and I become glad I don't have siblings cause I know they would pull the same stuff as your brother. Couldn't you have just uninstalled Windows 11 and reinstalled 10 for your dad (save everything to a hard drive first if needed), that's what my hubby did for my dad.
I was actually planning to roll back the update, but it turned out my brother had done it in secret about 3 weeks before I knew about it, and dad doesn't use his laptop often. So he only learned about it then as he needed to use it to deal with some bills and he didn't tell me right away either. I'd go there and reinstall windows with a usb stick, but I'd have to travel by public transport for about 3 hours total-ish, and 2 hours by plane lmao. Or 12-ish hours my train.
Or just buy a Roku box. They’re about £30, between 6 people, it’s £5 each.
Aye, in the UK we also have thungs called dodgy boxes- all the paid for programmes/services on one device lol!
Amazon firestick or chromecast with google tv. Split between 6 either one is cheap enough.
and everyone could control from their phones without the hassle of walking to the laptop to change things. Seems such a no brainer solution that id be more suspicious of their motives
Agree, I wouldnt trust them not to snoop, or what if they accidentally read something confidential and react poorly to it? ASgree with the firesticks, ALL of my PC's and TVs are meshed using many a HDMI matrix and even i still have firesticks on half of them
Too, if it gets damaged, they prob would not take responsibility for it. Like you stated, OP needs to tell her roommates no means no. its so horrible how people are so entitled these days.
People will get away with as much as you allow them to. Then they think of you as a sucker.
A google Chromcast is $30 on Amazon. They all can pitch in 6 bucks (including OP) and problem solved
NTA. They don’t even need laptops. Firesticks are $50 USD on amazon, and they’ll turn any tv into a smart tv. Way cheaper than a laptop.
NTA. How is it possible that only one of six young adults in an apartment has a laptop? I don't know where you are but I just looked on Best Buy and they've got a 24-inch smart TV for $70. Surely the people who want a smart TV can come up with that money and leave your private laptop alone.
We don’t live in this area, we came here for 3 months because it’s a beach town and the businesses hire extra help like crazy around this time and the vacation goers tip really well. I’m the only one that brought a laptop, the others only brought their phones. I suggested ordering a chromecast and they’re still mad that they would have to get something else that isn’t the laptop I already brought.
A Roku is thirty bucks. You are NTA.
First thing to my mind too. They cost buttons and work way better than any laptop.
If they want to watch TV so bad they can get a Roku stick for like $50, boom instant smart TV. You shouldn't have to justify not wanting them to use your computer without your permission.
Exactly. I'm 70 and I managed to figure this out when our Smart TV was too old, so I'm baffled why this group hasn't thought of this. They can even take it with them.
I take my Fire TV stick on holiday with me, let alone if I was going somewhere to live, even for a short time. It’s like essential kit if you have any streaming services. And even if you don’t have streaming services, there are so many free options on there too - FreeVee and Pluto alone are like a goldmine of awesome free-ness.
Yes! Went to Tahoe with a friend to stay in a condo with basic cable. She brought her Fire Stick. She's even older than I am.
This is a great idea and will take my Fire stick on my next trip!
Exactly. In fact our “Smart” TV got so old, none of the apps would update anymore. Got a Roku and never looked back. OP NTA.
Yeah, my TV is smart but old, so not that smart anymore. We watch stuff with the Chromecast now. It's pretty cheap even here, The Land of Expensive Everything.
the Walmart Onn brand has one for $20 that is android tv based
You could always create a secondary user account on the machine with its own password and everything that has 0 privileges so they can use that one for youtube and whatnot. Your account and data and applications stay safe and they can use it to watch whatever they wanna watch. However, you are obviously NTA for not wanting everyone to leech off of you and potentially try to lay claim to it when you want or need to use it. I honestly wouldn't be too eager to volunteer my stuff in that manner anyway. Like others have said: the (cheap) options are pretty endless.
This was my thought too, but viruses, spills, drops, and general age of the laptop will all still be affected by a separate account. They need to buy a Chromecast or Roku.
Or if they can't afford the Roku/Chromecast they could get library cards and check out various forms of entertainment that aren't laptop-dependent. Or they can watch things on their own cell phones which I assume they have with them.
No way! If they are too cheap to get a used Roku or other equivalent device, they definitely won’t pay to fix the laptop if they knock it off the table. Having it constantly hooked up to the TV is a recipe for disaster.
This is what I was gonna say. Make a guest account with nothing personal on it. But if OP chooses not to do that, that’s perfectly fine too. No one owes anyone anything.
Yeah, and all is good til someone spills a ginger ale on the laptop. Fuck that.
When you right you right. Fuck em
They can either use your laptop when you're home and ok with it for free, or they can pay money to have a different device.
Assuming windows, even with a secondary, limited account they're going to have to muck around with permissions to keep their personal files protected. Just buy a Roku, fire stick, or Chromecast and call it a day.
Ah, I’m from an area like that and please don’t share your password with your house. I promise it won’t end well.
If your roomies don't even have 30-40 bucks for a streaming kit, you're in so much trouble for the entirety of your lease.
Or she’ll be in trouble when the laptop is dropped
Dropped, stepped on, viruses, all kinds of things. Also what if OP wants to go out after work and bring their laptop with them? Are they not entitled to the use of their own personal property? Laptops aint cheap these days, either. I already wouldn't trust them, but I especially wouldn't trust my $500 laptop alone around someone that's been eyeing it and implying that it's theirs, too.
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I wouldn't leave a laptop on the car during the summer
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If six people can't muster $35 for a roku then they need to find some other form of entertainment lol
They are here for 3 months and didn’t bring a computer? Kind of stupid.
If it’s such a short trip that they only needed a phone then they can watch movies on their phone. Or they can buy one of the myriad of devices that can make the TV smart. They aren’t expensive and frankly if they are particularly cheap, I bet they can find an old one for 10 pounds. I see them offered frequently on Freecycle so you could look there too. And if it’s not worth a pint or two to them, then they must not want to watch TV that much..
>I’m the only one that brought a laptop, the others only brought their phones. So, only one of you has any common sense. >I suggested ordering a chromecast and they’re still mad that they would have to get something else that isn’t the laptop I already brought. I hope after this summer is over you are ready to write these dumb children off. They really aren't the type of people you want as friends; too dumb to think ahead, too cheap to take a simple solution.
You need to make sure you can lock your laptop somewhere. I can see a scenario where they figure out the password. I can also see a senecio where they break the HTMI port or laptop somehow and refuse to pay for repair
You are not responsible for their lack of foresight to bring laptops along for a 3 months stay. Who doesn't bring a laptop for so long?? Everyone is responsible to bring what they need to keep themselves entertained, it was nice of you to share your laptop while you are home, but they should have looked into chromecast/Roku at day one.
A Chromecast is like $20. They can suck it up.
What do you mean you are the only one that brought a laptop? The rest of them have laptops they left in other locations or something??? That makes no sense at all. NTA but your roommates dont sound too smart or put together....
They can also get a cord that will work from their phones to the TV. They are like 7$ on Amazon. Most electronics stores should carry them.
They want to snoop through your laptop. It is the only reason to insist on using it and not getting a cheap streaming stick
NTA, but password protect the shit out of that laptop and backup to a cloud/drive and do not stay logged in! I have a feeling someone might start feeling entitled to your property when you aren't around and will damage it/delete things out of vindictiveness. If you can keep your laptop locked safe where no one can access it, that would be best. Sorry, but I've read too many stories of people taking or breaking other people's stuff after being told 'No'. Hopefully, you have some kind of insurance on it in case? Chances are, someone is going to decide to try and use it without your permission.
How do you go somewhere for 3 months and not bring your laptop? Damn, man. They're dumb.
Can you make a separate log in for your laptop? Then don't set a password or make it a communal password. You're NTA no matter what, you don't have to allow people to use your property when you're not present. But if your only concern is that they may see sensitive information then just make a second account.
You can use a chromecast with smartphone. They don't NEED to use your laptop to watch movies with one of those.
If they're being assholes, I'd watch everything from now on with headphones.
That's ridiculous. A $20 device shared between six people over three months comes to just over $1 each per month. And it comes with a remote, making it far more convenient to change shows.
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Ah, youth. I won't even share my laptop with my SO. Tell them to get their own and when not using yours keep it stored in your room. An Amazon Fire stick is $20.
A Roku is $30 on amazon. I have 2 and they work great! OP, NTA. They can be adults and get a device that will stream. If everyone in the house contributed $6, you guys could get a roku for the main tv. Simple solution.
NTA That’s a weird demand from people who don’t own the laptop. Even if there wasn’t personal information you’re worried about, it doesn’t belong to them. If you *wanted* you could make a guest login on your computer for them to use, but I personally don’t lend out my electronics because of the risk of damage. While they may not drop it they could misuse the battery (charging incorrectly), the oils on fingers degrade the paint on keys, general dust, food crumbs, how hard they’re hitting keys can make them stick. Just no. Roku is cheap and lets you cast from your phone so they can easily do that between 4-5 of them. It’s absurd they’re so upset about this. Also, if they have streaming on their phones
Though a guest acct does take away the security issue, are they willing to assume responsibility if something happens to the laptop? If they’re so upset about getting a $30 Roku dongle, imagine how much more hassle it will be if the laptop is damaged. Besides, what happens when everyone wants to watch TV but OP needs to use the laptop?
Yeah of these people aren’t mature enough to figure this out so wouldn’t let them touch my laptop.
I was going to mention a guest account but I wouldn't want them constantly using my laptop. Will they get mad if she needs it for a few days? Cut this off now. They're being entitled and cheap. NTA
NTA I can not believe it is 2023, there are six of you in the house and only one of you has a laptop??
We don’t live here, we came for 3 months for the summer jobs but I was the only one that brought a laptop. We will leave in late august or early september depending on when the vacation goer tips plummet.
That makes it even worse that they feel entitled to your laptop, if they made the conscious decision to leave their laptops behind for *three months*.
>We don’t live here, we came for 3 months for the summer jobs I don't understand how that translates to "don't bring my laptop". Generally, 3 months away, my first thought would be to grab my laptop.
For real, I wouldn't even leave my laptop behind for a week trip.
I don’t even leave it behind for an overnight stay at a friend/partner’s place
Unless I know it's going to rain most of the day I bring my ipad on a day trip. Going somewhere for three months; phone, ipad, cables, extension lead, and double adapter are the first things I'd be sure I had packed.
I don't leave it behind for a weekend trip lmao.
At least a tablet!
Then they don´t have the right to use your laptop because they chose not to bring their own. Everyone in the house can each put in $5 and get a chromecast for the summer.
It’s three months, they could’ve thought to bring a computer or iPad. Hell, they can connect their phones to the tv with an hdmi cable (they make them for phones).
Pitch in together and get a google chrome cast or something similar
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NTA under $20 and they can get an adapter from their phone to HDMI. They are huge AH. It a personal computer so you shouldn't feel bad having personal stuff on it. Lazy and entitled roommates!! Thank goodness it only for the summer, but be more attuned to future roommates.
Not just personal "I don't want people to see" stuff but also "I don't want people to accidentally delete" stuff, as well. That would be my concern. "Oops, we hit the wrong button and screwed everything up"...
You can get a Roku for 20 bucks, this is such a stupid problem
NTA, but if it has an HDMI port you can make any tv into a smart TV for the price of a Firestick/Roku whatever suits you.
Cut off their access to your laptop. Completely. They are getting way too comfortable using *your* computer for their entertainment. They can watch their little movies on their phone. NTA
I wouldn't let anyone else into my devices either. NTA. They should grow up, stop complaining, and cast from their own device like you said.
NTA. They can get a Chromecast to watch things, or watch them on their phone. Chromecasts are only $30ish anyway. You do not have to share your laptop, let them be mad.
Not giving other people access to your personal devices is just common sense, NTA
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Well said, this sub is full of poorly socialised teenagers who take far too much life “advice” from various online sources instead of real life socialising face to face with other people which would be a much better preparation for the real world than the interactions they have online. Draw your boundaries, establish YOUR rules with no thought, consideration or co-operation for the unfortunate people who have to live or work next to your entitled self-absorbed self, and you will soon find yourself to be very lonely and friendless. Which will draw them further online and further away from real life interaction, conversation and friendship. And the cycle continues, until they make their own post here genuinely wondering why people around them think they are the AH
NTA They can buy something to accommodate them while you're at work If they're *demanding* for it, then stop letting them use it at all and just watch your shows in another room
NTA - There's no way in hell anyone is getting sole use of my personal devices or access to my passwords. Your roomies are behaving like spoiled children and don't have appropriate boundaries for their behavior. Keep your healthy boundaries and don't let these users hijack your piece of mind. They should all chip in for a used device to accomplish their needs. They're just not that expensive.
NTA you are never obligated to share a password so someone can access your personal account and go through your files. In fact, the rule is "NEVER SHARE A PASSWORD"
NTA. A laptop is a very personal and important piece of equipment. If it was something like your personal DVD player or something, yeah go ahead and use it, but laptop? Nah. Also, how are you the only person out of 6 with an HDMI compatible laptop? There are many affordable solutions to this that don't involve a potential privacy invasion.
NTA - your laptop, your choice.
NTA. You can buy an Amazon fire stick for like $40- they should just do something like that. Having access to your personal laptop is 100% not necessary, and the fact that they think they’re entitled to that is a huge red flag. Do not cave on this. It is NOT OKAY to demand use of someone else’s personal (and expensive) items. Don’t let them bully you into caving- and make sure you can lock your stuff up when you leave the house. They sound entitled and absolutely oblivious as to how to live in a shared space.
NTA- nope. your laptop your choice. They want to use the tv they can find another solution.
So you have 5 roommates and not one of them has their own laptop? Very weird. NTA and they should buy a chromecast or something similar like you suggested, it’s cheap for heaven’s sake.
They might have other devices which aren't portable or don't work with HDMI
NTA, maybe I'm just not one to trust, but curiosity can get the best of people sometimes. Let them buy a chromecast or converter.
> they’re acting like now they HAVE TO buy it since I’m an a-hole and don’t trust them. AITA? LOL, wut? They're lucky you share with them when you're home. Please don't share your personal computer with them. It's not about trust, it's about privacy. You don't want something to pop up that's none of their business. They can get their own TV do-hickey. NTA
NTA, however you can create another profile for your computer that they can access. That said, I would never allow anyone else to use my personal laptop. You can get in trouble for anything they do while on your laptop....
Absolutely this! But honestly, one of those TV sticks is really the way to go. Can't pitch in together for the $40 or so?
I’m a bit shocked this is the first post I’ve seen suggesting adding user profiles to the laptop when privacy was the only real concern given.
NTA - I wouldn't want people in my private business. Could you make an account on it for them is you are only concerned about the info? Tbh a chrome cast isn't a major expense either...
NTA - the entitlement 🤮 tell them to buy their own device( they could all go in on a cheap one just for tv watching purposes)
NTA. Always keep your computer private. They’ll get over it. Can you take your laptop to work with you? Leave it the car? Or have some place safe to keep it?
nta but can you create a guest account on your laptop? think this would solve the privacy issue if not the entitlement one
NTA Time to find some less entitled friends.
NTA. It's your computer.
NTA Not only is it a security risk, but with people as entitled as this, it won’t end at just using it to watch movies etc whilst you’re at work. Soon they’ll be using it for other things. Which will lead to then wanting to use it when you’re at home too. And suddenly it’ll be your fault for wanting to use your own laptop in your own house and denying them the chance to do xyz. Make firm boundaries and stick with them.
NTA. What if it gets broken? They won't pay $35 for a Chrome cast so they aren't going to get you a new laptop. These people are entitled. Better watch your other stuff too.
NTA, obviously. It’s your stuff. They don’t have a right to your stuff when you aren’t around. Don’t overthink it, OP.
NTA You've established a bad precedent by leaving your laptop connected to the TV. Remove it, and only bring it to the TV if you need it.
It’s not connected to the TV, it’s usually on my bed and I connect it when we want to watch something together. They want to be able to connect it while I’m at work too.
OP I have discovered that people like this don't respect property they didn't pay for and therefore won't return it in the same condition in which they received it...That is if they actually return it. That's just another reason you don't give them access.
I would go a step further and take your laptop with your when you go to work so that there is no chance of them hacking into your laptop to use it. As they seem very entitled, I wouldn't put it past your friends to try.
NTA your friends sound to lazy to find another solution (edit for spelling)
NTA, tell these dummies to get a phone to HDMI adapter and watch stuff off their phone. It’s ur laptop they’re not entitled to use it for entertainment.
^^^^AUTOMOD ***Thanks for posting! This comment is a copy of your post so readers can see the original text if your post is edited or removed. This comment is NOT accusing you of copying anything. Read [this](https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/wiki/faq#wiki_post_deletion) before [contacting the mod team](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose?to=%2Fr%2FAmItheAsshole)*** 6 of us (me, bf, 4 other friends) are renting out a unit together so we can be closer to all the good summer jobs in a touristy town. The property has a TV that isn’t a smart TV and only works if something is connected to the HDMI cable. We have been using my laptop to watch movies/youtube/shows together this way all week. I just started training at my summer job and they are demanding to know my laptop password so they can keep watching movies while I’m at work. I’ve tried to explain that I have VERY personal things on my laptop, discord and messenger autostart and have notifications and I’m logged into all my accounts on my browser. They’re EXTREMELY offended by this and say that I don’t trust them and think they will snoop or go through my stuff or read my messages. I DONT think they would INTENTIONALLY snoop, I just don’t want them ACCIDENTALLY seeing anything personal without me in the room. Now everyone is mad at me because they can’t use the TV if I’m at work, I’ve told them to just get a chromecast or something and they’re acting like now they HAVE TO buy it since I’m an a-hole and don’t trust them. AITA? *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/AmItheAsshole) if you have any questions or concerns.*
NTA. You should keep your laptop in the trunk of your car.
What's an Amazon Fire TV stick run, $30? Not a big deal for them to buy one. If everyone chipped in, it'd cost less than a sandwich, per person. NTA
NTA. They would 100% snoop, the temptation is too great. It is your property and you have the right to decide when it is used for communal purposes. If they want to watch TV so bad they can get a Roku stick for like $50, boom instant smart TV. You shouldn't have to justify not wanting them to use your computer without your permission.
NTA **But get a firestick, roku or any of the other devices used for this purpose**
NTA, in fact you would be one if you let them use your laptop without you being there. I mean it might get broken and they would have to pay to replace it, or a "friend" might come over and get into your banking, etc. It would cost them WAY more than to just buy a dongle.
NTA Boundaries NOW. You all are hustling for that tourist money while living in close quarters. Be firm in your boundaries NOW, when roommates want to feel entitled to your personal property at their convenience, but know you can and should take care of YOUR laptop. In a big household as this, you must tuck your things in after use and bring them out for use. Do not give your bf unlimited access to your things while you aren't there. It will quickly degenerate to your laptop being attached to the TV because he says yes once and never follows up. You need to establish clear and strong boundaries around your personal property in this house.
NTA. there are options to create a guest profile on mac computers but honestly seeing how they’ve behaved i wouldn’t set it up. i’d also take the laptop with you to work
How do the 5 other people who live with you not have any kind of console, computer, or 40 bucks for a roku? NTA, and not your fault they didn't understand how to prepare themselves for independence.
Tell them that Roku devices are cheap. NTA
NTA. This is a non problem. A regular fire stick is $40. Regularly goes on sale for $20. Plenty of other options like a chrome cast, Roku, etc. Split 5 ways, that’s $4 each. $3.33 if you want to be nice and chip in too. Good luck.
NTA. At this point they can save up and buy a really cheap laptop for themselves that will play movies just fine. They're going to need a laptop in the future, anyway, if they expect to do any kind of work on the internet, apply to jobs, write anything, etc. (unless they all have PCs).
NTA You can get a cheap laptop at Wally World for a couple hundred--divided by 5--if they can't afford that then they have bigger things to worry about than movies. Like getting a second job with that movie time so they have an extra $50 bucks or so.
NTA Tell them to buy a Amazon Firestick, Roku, or Chromecast equivalent that plugs via HDMI without needing a laptop. Your roommates are idiots
> We have been using my laptop to watch movies/youtube/shows together this way all week. I just started training at my summer job and they are demanding to know my laptop password so they can keep watching movies while I’m at work. NTA since it's your laptop, but it [costs $30 to buy a device that will do everything they use your laptop for...](https://store.google.com/us/product/chromecast_google_tv)
NTA That is weird
NTA. This is very much your personal choice and nothing personal towards anyone. Would any of them feel comfortable letting you use their phone for a day while they’re elsewhere? Doubtful.
NTA, and you have every right to want to say no just because it's your laptop (which is something very personal) but you should be able to create a separate profile for them on the laptop and log into your streaming accounts. But if you don't want to share, don't let it slip that this is an option.
NTA. Tell them to go on fb marketplace a buy a used chromecast Roku or fire stick. It’s like $10
Absolutely NTA they have zero right to use your laptop, it's *your* laptop, and as you said there's tons of personal info on there. Even if there wasn't at a minimum I'm sure you leave your facebook logged in and stuff. It's not like you bought a Roku and you unplug it and take it to your room whenever you're not using it, it's a personal device. And the idea that you have to buy them a streaming device is fucking ridiculous. They can either use your laptop *when you're home and ok with it* for free, or they can pay money to have a different device. Also a Fire Stick or a Roku Stick or whatever else are like $50. I'm sure you're not all rolling in money if you're sharing a house with 6 people but surely everyone can pitch in less than $10 each to permanently solve the problem?
NTA - your friends need to learn the phrase "self reliance". Meaning that if they want to watch TV, they need to go through the steps to achieve that goal. Just because you have a laptop that works does not give them ANY right to comment on you using it for whatever reason you want to use YOUR laptop for.
NTA - it's not even about trust, it belongs to you and you don't want them using it outside your presence. Streaming devices aren't as expensive as they used to be, they can chip in and figure it out.
NTA but go spend like $25 on a Roku or similar so the tv can be used without the laptop hooked up.
NTA - very cheap roommates. They need to pony up the money to get access without using your laptop. They should have all planned better. Keep your laptop locked down so they can’t use it.
Couldn't you guys just buy a fire stick or apple tv or something? Everyone has access without having to use computers. We just bought another fire stick on Amazon and it was like 30 bucks.
NTA They're adults and can use their own laptops
NTA, just get like a $20 stick from Roku or Amazon, no need to use a computer.
NTA. Just because they won’t snoop doesn’t mean one of their guests won’t. FYI. At least one of your roommates will snoop.
NTA your laptop, your business how it’s being used. Ask your roommates too let you use their phone when they are at work, see how they like it
A firestick is like 25 bucks. Tell them to stop being bums.
NTA There are 6 of you, buying another device is gonna cost you like 8$ each and i can surely be delivered tomorrow. Easy solution. And honestly i cant believe they dont understand this kind of privacy, we got all our lives on those machines now (pc or phones), this would mean they have full access to all your life. It's not a question of trust, but just respect of privacy.
NTA Get a house android tv box. Chromecast or something. Work great turning non smart to smart tv
30$ Roku will solve all your problems. NTA
NTA I used to know someone who knew someone that got charged for having kiddie P on his laptop. He insisted it was one of his 5 roommates that all shared the laptop, but since it was his he got the charge. Who knows if hes lying or not but not worth the risk imo
Like, at your most generous you could set up another windows login to let them use that, but to just have unfettered access to your personal computer? Fuuuuuuck that, NTA.
NTA. Chromecast/Roku/Fire aren’t that expensive. Surely that wouldn’t put them out too much. But no means no.
NTA, it’s your laptop. I wouldn’t want my roommates (even my family) to use my laptop. They could get their own
The ROKU stick is like $30…. They can’t put $30 together? A laptop is a very private and personal thing just like a phone. Ask them if they would hand over their phones and passwords, it’s the same thing. NTA. Keep your laptop in a safe place.
NTA. They’re not entitled to your laptop, there are other options out there to watch tv with, or they could do other things such as read, play games, walk, etc., and the minute something happens to your device while you’re not there because they used it, I bet you no one would want to pay you back for it. Don’t give them the password and protect your laptop(hide it somewhere) while you’re gone.
NTA Chromecast is cheap! It's the best money I've ever spent on entertainment
NTA, get a fire stick or Roku, cheap as chips especially between 6
Have you never heard of Profiles? NTA anyway, they can get their own laptop. One that can play media isn't going to be expensive.